ENGLISH
REFERENCE

applied

v.
B1 Intermediate US //əˈpɫaɪd// UK //ɐplˈaɪd// ap·plied

v. to ask for something officially, like a job or a place at a school, usually by writing a letter or filling out a form. You can also use this word when you put a substance, like cream or paint, onto a surface.

v. to make a formal request for something, such as employment or admission, typically via a written submission. In a physical sense, to spread or lay a substance onto a surface.


SIMPLE

She applied for a job at the local hospital yesterday.

CONTEXTUAL

After finishing his degree, he applied to several international firms to gain experience in finance.

COMPLEX

The technician applied a thin layer of conductive paste to the processor before securing the cooling unit to ensure optimal heat transfer during operation.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

When requesting something, it takes the preposition 'for' (the object) or 'to' (the recipient). In its physical sense, it is transitive and takes a direct object.

Pitfall

I applied a jobI applied for a jobWhen seeking employment or a position, the verb requires the preposition 'for' before the noun.

© 2026 English Reference